Posted on December 13, 2023
Categories: News from SDP

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Dear School District of Philadelphia Families,

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) patrol officers, the Fraternal Order of Transit Police Lodge 109, voted to go on strike this evening. As a result, the SEPTA police officers who patrol SEPTA’s subways, trolleys and buses, will begin their  strike immediately.

We recognize the absence of a police presence on the city’s transit system raises questions regarding the safety of commuters across the city. SEPTA’s Supervisory Transit Police will be working extended shifts to provide a steady presence at terminals, transfer points, hot spots, and transit corridors.

Local law enforcement partners, including the Philadelphia Police Department and university police departments, will provide support during the strike. Additionally, the District’s school safety officers will be positioned in observational roles at the Olney and Frankford transportations centers to support areas where a high number of students board and gather.

At this time, School District of Philadelphia schools will remain open for in-person learning and all District offices, including those at 440 N. Broad Street, will operate on their normal schedules.

The School District is firmly committed to supporting students and families, and preparing Philadelphia’s children to imagine and realize any future they desire.

In partnership,

Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
The School District of Philadelphia